Roberto Garza Released by Bears: Latest Details, Comments, Reaction

After 10 seasons together, the Chicago Bears and veteran center Roberto Garza parted ways Thursday.  

According to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune, the Bears will release the 36-year-old offensive lineman in a somewhat surprising move:

The team later confirmed the news via its Twitter account and announced it signed center Will Montgomery to a one-year deal.

Bears Insider on Twitter provided comments from general manager Ryan Pace on Garza's departure:

Garza has been the one constant along Chicago's offensive line over the past decade, having missed only six games since coming over from the Atlanta Falcons in 2005.

The center took to Instagram to say goodbye to fans:

Per Arthur Arkush of USA Today, Garza had been part of the Bears organization longer than any other player on the roster:

Although the Texas A&M-Kingsville alum has never been named to a Pro Bowl, he has been among the most consistent and reliable interior linemen in football over the past several years.

He is capable of playing both center and guard, and even though he is approaching the end of his career, his versatility and experience should make him an attractive option in free agency.

The Bears are an organization ready to move forward with a new general manager and coaching staff in place, and cutting ties with a longtime player like Garza is certainly a sign that the new regime is willing to make some tough decisions.

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